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Bangkok prison scrutinised for bribes and Chinese inmate privilege By Petch Petpailin Photo via Facebook/ เรือนจำพิเศษกรุงเทพมหานคร A Thai political activist and former inmate accused officials at Bangkok Remand Prison of accepting bribes from a Chinese inmate and granting them privileges. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1350137-bangkok-prison-scrutinised-for-bribes-and-chinese-inmate-privilege/

Photo via Facebook/ เรือนจำพิเศษกรุงเทพมหานคร By Petch Petpailin A Thai political activist and former inmate accused officials at Bangkok Remand Prison of accepting bribes from a Chinese inmate and granting them privileges. The activist, Ekkachai Hongkangwan, took to Facebook on Tuesday, January 21, to share his experiences in Bangkok Remand Prison between 2022 and 2023. His post highlighted the comfortable lives of Chinese call centre scam suspects and alleged corruption within the prison system. Ekkachai revealed that Chinese inmates always stayed together in a group, held considerable power, and lived comfortably despite their imprisonment as they offered substantial bribes to prison officials. According to Ekkachai, the Chinese inmates were exempt from work and prison activities. They allegedly managed to obtain fresh grilled salmon and cigars worth over 15,000 baht while in prison. They even had their own speaker system to play Chinese music. While over 30 Thai inmates were crammed into a 30-square-metre room, 11 Chinese inmates reportedly had their own spacious and uncrowded quarters. Ekkachai Hongkangwan | Photo via Facebook/ เอกชัย หงส์กังวาน In cases of arguments or altercations in the prison, Chinese inmates were always favoured, with Thai inmates being punished instead. Ekkachai also claimed that Chinese inmates used their wealth to hire Thai inmates as personal servants. Ekkachai further alleged that what Chinese criminals feared most was deportation, as they could face the death penalty or life imprisonment if convicted in China. By remaining in Thailand, they could serve a few years in prison before returning to their illegal activities. Ekkachai’s post drew significant public attention, with many calling for clarification on whether bribery and privilege among Chinese inmates truly occurred. Photo via Facebook/ เรือนจำพิเศษกรุงเทพมหานคร In response, the Department of Corrections announced an investigation into the claims. In an official statement, the department asserted that all prisons in Thailand, including Bangkok Remand Prison, operate in compliance with departmental rules and policies. The department denied granting privileges to any group of inmates and pledged to investigate Ekkachai’s allegations thoroughly to uncover the truth. Officials also promised to hold any staff involved in corruption accountable. In addition to this recent post, Ekkachai previously made headlines after sharing details of his sexual experiences in prison. That post led to further charges levied against him due to its explicit content. Source: The Thaiger -- 2025-01-28

Chiang Mai Moves Closer to UNESCO World Heritage Recognition File photo for reference only Chiang Mai, Thailand's northern gem and former capital of the Lanna Kingdom, is making strides towards becoming a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Officials from the Culture Ministry, Fine Arts Department, and Chiang Mai Province are finalizing the nomination dossier to present to UNESCO in Paris. This move could spotlight the city's global cultural significance. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1350135-chiang-mai-moves-closer-to-unesco-world-heritage-recognition/

File photo for reference only Chiang Mai, Thailand's northern gem and former capital of the Lanna Kingdom, is making strides towards becoming a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Officials from the Culture Ministry, Fine Arts Department, and Chiang Mai Province are finalizing the nomination dossier to present to UNESCO in Paris. This move could spotlight the city's global cultural significance. The nomination includes Chiang Mai's historic monuments, cultural landscapes, and key sites that echo more than 700 years of rich history. Notable landmarks such as Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, Doi Suthep-Pui National Park, Wat Chedi Luang, Wat Phra Singh, and the city’s ancient walls and gates are part of the proposal. These sites uniquely blend Buddhist traditions with the legacy of the Lanna Kingdom. Chiang Mai has been on UNESCO’s tentative list since 2015, and officials are preparing to submit the final nomination soon. This bid could lead Chiang Mai to join Thailand's five existing UNESCO-listed cultural properties, including the Historic City of Ayutthaya and the Historic Town of Sukhothai. If successful, such a designation would not only bring international recognition but also enhance efforts to preserve Chiang Mai’s historic sites and landscapes. Both locals and tourists are excited, hoping the status will bring more attention to the city’s cultural treasures. For now, the world watches as Chiang Mai takes a major step towards earning a place among UNESCO's most cherished heritage sites, celebrating its enduring beauty and historical significance. -- 2025-01-28

Phuket Bans Burning as Thailand Battles Severe Smog File photo for reference only Phuket has introduced a strict burning ban as part of Thailand's nationwide effort to combat severe smog and PM2.5 pollution. Deputy Prime Minister and Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul ordered the ban, which was announced by Phuket Vice Governor Adul Chuthong last Friday, January 24. The ban prohibits all agricultural burning during the dry season, with violations subject to severe penalties under the Forestry Act, including up to 20 years in prison and fines up to 5 million baht. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1350134-phuket-bans-burning-as-thailand-battles-severe-smog/

File photo for reference only Phuket has introduced a strict burning ban as part of Thailand's nationwide effort to combat severe smog and PM2.5 pollution. Deputy Prime Minister and Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul ordered the ban, which was announced by Phuket Vice Governor Adul Chuthong last Friday, January 24. The ban prohibits all agricultural burning during the dry season, with violations subject to severe penalties under the Forestry Act, including up to 20 years in prison and fines up to 5 million baht. "This uncontrolled burning harms forests, wildlife, and public health," Chuthong emphasized. Under the ban, any necessary agricultural burning must have prior approval from local officials, with strict safety measures such as firebreaks and fire control officers in place. Residents are encouraged to report fires through the Phuket Forest Fire Control Station or hotline 1362. Currently, Phuket's air quality remains in the orange zone, indicating moderate pollution. Officials are keen to prevent the hazardous PM2.5 levels affecting other regions. As of January 23, 44 provinces reported red zone pollution levels, per the Geo-Informatics and Space Technology Development Agency (GISTDA). The ban was reaffirmed during a high-level meeting at the Phuket Provincial Hall on Saturday, January 25, led by Phuket Vice Governor Ronnarong Thipsiri and Deputy PM Anutin, who participated remotely. They discussed strategies to tackle haze, prevent forest fires, and address drought. Anutin stressed the importance of strict enforcement against agricultural burning and swift responses to fire incidents. "Immediate action is crucial to protect both public health and the environment," he stated. With 19 provinces in the red zone, Phuket's proactive measures aim to maintain clear skies and ensure resident safety. -- 2025-01-28

Bangkok Sees 60% Train Ridership Surge with Free Transport File photo for reference only In Greater Bangkok, train usage spiked by 60% on January 26, the second day of a government-backed free public transport week. The initiative is aimed at reducing air pollution, according to the Department of Rail Transport (DRT). Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1350133-bangkok-sees-60-train-ridership-surge-with-free-transport/

File photo for reference only In Greater Bangkok, train usage spiked by 60% on January 26, the second day of a government-backed free public transport week. The initiative is aimed at reducing air pollution, according to the Department of Rail Transport (DRT). DRT director, Pichet Kunathammarak, reported that the city's electric train network recorded 1,549,622 trips—up 60.90% from the average of the first three Sundays in January. This increase outstripped the 45.29% rise seen on January 25, the initiative's opening day. Between January 25 and 31, Bangkok residents enjoy complimentary travel on public buses and trains as a strategy to combat harmful PM2.5 air pollutants. Here's the breakdown of increased ridership for January 26 by train line: Airport Rail Link**: +34.36% to 69,199 trips. Red Line**: +72.44% to 43,083 trips. Blue Line**: +48.38% to 417,740 trips. Purple Line**: +46.76% to 55,164 trips. BTS Green Line (Sukhumvit and Silom routes)**: +62.46% to 805,591 trips. Gold Line**: +153.07% to 16,470 trips. Yellow Line**: +114.47% to 64,662 trips. Pink Line**: +122.36% to 77,713 trips. Pichet also noted that MRT and BTS operators are advised to manage peak-hour ridership by adjusting train frequency. On the morning of January 27, amid rush hour, high demand led to free ticket distributions at popular BTS stations, such as Siam and Mo Chit, due to overwhelmed ticket machines. Many commuters wore masks to fend off the fine dust, as observed by local media. Transport Minister Suriya Jungrungreangkit stated that once the campaign ends, the government will assess its effectiveness before considering an extension. While some critics have questioned its impact on reducing car usage, which costs 140 million baht (US$4 million), Suriya is hopeful about its potential to cut road traffic. He suggested checking with the Office of Transport and Traffic Policy and Planning, which uses CCTV across Bangkok to track traffic changes. -- 2025-01-28

Chinese nationals deny dine and dash, citing a misunderstanding By Petch Petpailin Photo via Naewna Chinese nationals accused of a dine and dash claimed they did not intentionally evade a bill of 9,480 baht at a restaurant in the Isaan province of Udon Thani, but instead cited a misunderstanding. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1350131-chinese-nationals-deny-dine-and-dash-citing-a-misunderstanding/

Photo via Naewna By Petch Petpailin Chinese nationals accused of a dine and dash claimed they did not intentionally evade a bill of 9,480 baht at a restaurant in the Isaan province of Udon Thani, but instead cited a misunderstanding. The 27 year old manager of a South Korean restaurant filed a complaint at Mueang Udon Thani Police Station yesterday, January 27, stating that 12 Chinese nationals failed to settle their food bill after dining at the establishment on Sunday, January 26, at around 7pm. According to the manager, the group of 12 Chinese adults and children ordered several premium dishes, including beef loin, tenderloin, imported beef from Japan, and beer, amounting to a total bill of 9,480 baht. The manager reported that the group gradually left their seats, with staff assuming they were going to the bathroom. However, they were gone for an extended period. Upon reviewing CCTV footage, staff discovered that the group already left the premises. The manager expressed confidence that the Chinese nationals intentionally avoided paying. One member of the group was seen on CCTV behaving suspiciously, looking for security cameras at the restaurant’s entrance before quickly leaving for a car. The manager urged the group to return and pay their bill, explaining that he would otherwise have to cover the cost herself, which equalled his entire monthly salary. The restaurant, which had been in operation for about three months now, has never experienced an incident like this. Police from Mueang Udon Thani Police Station tracked the vehicle used by the group and located them at a hotel in the province. Reports indicate that the group agreed to pay the bill yesterday, January 27. One of the Chinese nationals claimed they did not intentionally evade payment but it was a misunderstanding. They arrived at the restaurant in two separate groups, with each group assuming the other paid. Source: The Thaiger -- 2025-01-28

Thai motorcyclist hits South Korean man on zebra crossing By Petch Petpailin Photo via Facebook/ เรารักด่านตรวจ A Thai motorcyclist struck a South Korean pedestrian at a zebra crossing on a Bangkok road on Thursday, 23 January. The incident occurred at the same location as a case in 2022 when a Thai ophthalmologist was fatally struck by a motorcycle. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1350130-thai-motorcyclist-hits-south-korean-man-on-zebra-crossing-video/

Photo via Facebook/ เรารักด่านตรวจ By Petch Petpailin A Thai motorcyclist struck a South Korean pedestrian at a zebra crossing on a Bangkok road on Thursday, 23 January. The incident occurred at the same location as a case in 2022 when a Thai ophthalmologist was fatally struck by a motorcycle. The Facebook page เรารักด่านตรวจ (translating to “We Love Police Checkpoints”) shared dashcam footage of the accident on Phaya Thai Road to its followers on Sunday, January 26. The caption read, “The same spot where the eye doctor was hit. Red light means nothing.” The video showed other vehicles slowing down and stopping at the red light to allow pedestrians to cross, but the motorcyclist failed to stop and struck one of the pedestrians. The victim was later identified as a South Korean national, but his name has not been disclosed to the public. According to KomChadLuek, the 68 year old South Korean man sustained a head injury and was rushed to Phaya Thai Hospital following the accident. He was reportedly discharged from the hospital on the same day and has since returned to his home country. One of the most widely publicised fatal road accidents occurred at this zebra crossing on January 21, 2022, when a Thai police officer collided with ophthalmologist Dr Waraluck “Kratai” Supawatjariyakul while she was crossing the road. A memorial ceremony marking the doctor’s death had just been held at the same location on Tuesday, January 21, only a few days before the recent incident. The motorcyclist, identified as Kwanchai, is set to be summoned for questioning at Phaya Thai Police Station today, January 28. He sustained minor injuries in the accident, and tests confirmed he had no alcohol in his system. Kwanchai has initially been charged under Sections 22 and 43(4) of the Land Transport Act for failing to obey traffic signals and reckless driving causing injury. The penalty for these offences is a fine of up to 1,000 baht. He may also face penalties under Section 390 of the Criminal Law for reckless driving causing injury, which carries a maximum sentence of one month in prison, a fine of up to 10,000 baht, or both. Kwanchai’s wife publicly apologised to the South Korean victim and the public, explaining that her husband was unfamiliar with the route and failed to notice the traffic light. She added that it was his first time riding on Phaya Thai Road, and the motorcycle belonged to a relative. She added that the vehicle was uninsured. Source: The Thaiger -- 2025-01-28

China exposes 36 scam gangs targeting victims with 100k callers By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post Chinese police have revealed the shocking scale of international call scam operations, with 36 major gangs employing over 100,000 callers to swindle victims out of their money. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1350128-china-exposes-36-scam-gangs-targeting-victims-with-100k-callers/

Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Chinese police have revealed the shocking scale of international call scam operations, with 36 major gangs employing over 100,000 callers to swindle victims out of their money. The revelation came during a high-profile meeting between Chinese Assistant Minister of Public Security Liu Zhongyi and Thailand’s Cyber Crime Investigation Bureau (CCIB) in Nonthaburi yesterday. Leading a Chinese delegation, Liu sought Thailand’s cooperation in dismantling these criminal networks, many of which operate from Myanmar’s Myawaddy region near Thailand’s Tak province. These gangs have reportedly lured Chinese citizens into crossing the border into Myanmar under false pretences, only to be forced into gruelling work in scam centres under brutal conditions. “Many victims have been assaulted, and some have tragically lost their lives.” Liu highlighted the recent case of Chinese actor Wang Xing, who was duped into travelling to Myanmar for a fake casting audition. Instead of a role, he was held captive by a scam gang before eventually being rescued. The incident has caused widespread concern among Chinese citizens, leading to a drop in tourists visiting Thailand due to safety fears. The Chinese delegation called on Thai police to arrest and extradite gang bosses residing in Thailand and apprehend around 20 suspects linked to Wang’s case. They also urged Thailand to block the resources and financial channels used by these gangs. In response, the CCIB proposed stronger collaboration, including setting up a joint coordination centre to combat call-scam operations. Thai police also requested Chinese support in locating gang leaders and halting the transfer of funds from victims to scammers, reported Bangkok Post. Source: The Thaiger -- 2025-01-28

Khon Kaen Cops Bust Men with 4 Million Meth Pills File photo for reference only Police in Khon Kaen arrested two men transporting four million methamphetamine pills believed to be linked to Xaysana, a notorious drug lord. The arrest took place on January 27 at Ban Phai Police Station. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1350127-khon-kaen-cops-bust-men-with-4-million-meth-pills/

File photo for reference only Police in Khon Kaen arrested two men transporting four million methamphetamine pills believed to be linked to Xaysana, a notorious drug lord. The arrest took place on January 27 at Ban Phai Police Station. Lt. Gen. Chatchai Surachetpong, leading the operation, was backed by Khon Kaen Governor Kraisorn Kongchalard and senior officers like Maj. Gen. Kittisak Chamrasprasert and Maj. Gen. Prasai Jittasonti. The suspects, Bird, 34, and Khet, 40, were under investigation for drug trafficking in Ban Phai district and apprehended on January 25 around 11 pm. They were caught unloading sacks by the roadside in Hin Tang subdistrict, Ban Phai. Police found 10 sacks containing a total of four million meth pills. The men confessed to being paid 150,000 baht (around US$4,425) to transport the drugs from Nakhon Phanom province to Ban Phai, ultimately destined for Southern Thailand. Both men had prior drug convictions and joined Xaysana’s network after serving time. Authorities continue to probe deeper into this drug link. Police confirmed no agricultural drones were used to bring the meth into Thailand. -- 2025-01-28

Debate Sparks Over Free Bangkok Transport to Curb Air Pollution File photo for reference only The Thai government is under fire for spending 140 million baht on free public transport in Bangkok for a week, a measure intended to curb air pollution. Critics argue the plan doesn’t address the root causes of the city's haze crisis. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1350126-debate-sparks-over-free-bangkok-transport-to-curb-air-pollution/

File photo for reference only The Thai government is under fire for spending 140 million baht on free public transport in Bangkok for a week, a measure intended to curb air pollution. Critics argue the plan doesn’t address the root causes of the city's haze crisis. Announced by Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, the initiative launched on Saturday, January 25, aims to reduce PM2.5 particle levels by encouraging commuters to ditch their cars and use public transport. This includes free rides on buses and electric trains. Key operators like the Bangkok Transit System and Bangkok Mass Transit Authority are participating. However, not everyone is convinced. On Facebook, Bhumjaithai MP Korrawee Prissananantakul criticized the plan as "ineffective," stating it assumes drivers will switch to public transport, which he called "easier said than done." "The government is spending taxpayers’ money on Bangkok's problem. What about other provinces suffering the same pollution?" he questioned. Environmental experts also voiced their opinions. Jessada Denduangboripant from Chulalongkorn University suggested that the budget could provide air purifiers for schools. Marine ecosystem expert Thon Thamrongnawasawat criticized the delayed government action, saying, "We’ve been dealing with this pollution for weeks." Despite the criticism, the free transport initiative drew a 45% increase in electric train passengers on its first day, with the BTS Green Line reporting 857,878 trips—a 46% rise. The debate continues over whether measures like free public transport can effectively address Bangkok's air quality crisis or if they represent a misuse of taxpayer money on short-term solutions. -- 2025-01-28

Sukhothai's Air Quality Deteriorates; Residents Advised To Act File photo for reference only Sukhothai province has witnessed dangerously high PM2.5 levels for a week, according to the Ministry of Public Health’s Health Information Centre. Local residents were urged to clean their homes and use protective gear. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1350123-sukhothais-air-quality-deteriorates-residents-advised-to-act/

File photo for reference only Sukhothai province has witnessed dangerously high PM2.5 levels for a week, according to the Ministry of Public Health’s Health Information Centre. Local residents were urged to clean their homes and use protective gear. Doctor Warat Chotipitayasunon, a spokesperson for the Ministry, reported a rise in public awareness regarding PM2.5 pollution, with various agencies working together effectively. Despite these efforts, 15 people faced enforcement actions for illegal burning. This illegal activity fueled wildfires, affecting around 6,016 rai of land and worsening PM2.5 levels. Air quality updates show a positive shift, with six provinces now in the blue zone (0-15 micrograms per cubic metre). These are Phatthalung, Pattani, Narathiwat, Yala, Trang, and Sakon Nakhon. The number of green zone provinces, with levels between 15.1-25.0 micrograms, has risen to 17. Fifteen provinces are in the yellow zone (25.1-37.5 micrograms), and 37 in the orange zone (37.5-75.0 micrograms). Sukhothai remains the sole red zone province with levels over 75 micrograms per cubic metre. There has been a slight improvement, from 86 micrograms yesterday to 79 today. Doctor Wararat predicted PM2.5 levels might improve in the next few days due to incoming winds. However, starting January 30, the situation could revert. Residents must stay alert, keep their homes sealed, and use protective measures against dust. -- 2025-01-28

Russian couple accused of dining and dashing at many Phuket restaurants By Petch Petpailin Photo via Facebook/ Phuket Times ภูเก็ตไทม์ A Russian couple reportedly dined and dashed at multiple restaurants in Phuket, sparking an online debate over the visa-free scheme, which some online users claim attracts low-quality foreign visitors. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1350122-russian-couple-accused-of-dining-and-dashing-at-many-phuket-restaurants/

Photo via Facebook/ Phuket Times ภูเก็ตไทม์ By Petch Petpailin A Russian couple reportedly dined and dashed at multiple restaurants in Phuket, sparking an online debate over the visa-free scheme, which some online users claim attracts low-quality foreign visitors. A restaurant owner in Patong, Phuket, shared his experience with the foreign couple, believed to be Russian nationals, via the news Facebook page Phuket Times ภูเก็ตไทม์ today, January 28. He warned other restaurant owners to be cautious of their behaviour. The page reported… “Awful! A Russian couple has been dining and dashing at restaurants in Phuket. Sometimes they evade the bills, while at other times they beg for free food, claiming they have no money.” The restaurant owner told the media that the foreign couple showed him a message on their mobile phone. The message read… “We are foreigners and have no money. Could you give us money, food, or necessary items?” The owner decided not to offer them anything, as he did not trust their story. He said he could not verify whether they were genuinely in trouble or simply looking to live an easy life without working. He apologised to the couple and informed them that he could not assist them. The restaurant owner also questioned the Thai officials’ lack of action, pointing out that begging for food and money is illegal under Thai law. A Thai woman commented on the incident, saying she also encountered the couple walking along Nanai Road yesterday, January 27. Some Thai netizens criticised the couple for exploiting the generosity of Thai people. The others blamed the visa-free scheme for allowing foreign visitors to enter the country too easily, leading to an influx of what they described as low-quality foreigners in tourist areas. Another Thai woman shared a similar incident in a different industry, revealing that she worked in a massage parlour where three Israeli clients refused to pay for their services, claiming the massage was not satisfactory. Source: The Thaiger -- 2025-01-28

South Korean Tourists Boost Chiang Mai's Recovery File photo for reference only Chiang Mai is experiencing a tourism shift with South Korea emerging as a top market, potentially surpassing China in visitor numbers this year. This change comes as more direct flights and favorable winter conditions attract South Korean tourists, according to the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT). Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1350121-south-korean-tourists-boost-chiang-mais-recovery/

File photo for reference only Chiang Mai is experiencing a tourism shift with South Korea emerging as a top market, potentially surpassing China in visitor numbers this year. This change comes as more direct flights and favorable winter conditions attract South Korean tourists, according to the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT). Patsalin Swetarat from TAT’s Chiang Mai office noted that while Chinese arrivals haven’t drastically declined, slow post-pandemic recovery and safety concerns have hindered their travel. In contrast, January 2025 saw 34,954 South Koreans visiting Chiang Mai, slightly above 34,894 Chinese visitors. The province is adapting by targeting promising markets like South Korea. Upcoming Chinese New Year celebrations are expected to see an 82% hotel occupancy, bringing in 686 million baht (US$20 million). Of that, 463 million baht (US$13.6 million) will come from international tourists. In 2024, Chinese tourists led with 326,651 arrivals, but South Koreans were close behind with 283,681. Other markets included Taiwan, Hong Kong, and Malaysia. Direct flights are pivotal for Chiang Mai's tourism growth, with efforts to increase flights from India. International tourists make up 30% of Chiang Mai’s visitors. The extended cool weather and lower pollution levels have boosted local tourism since late 2024. The only setback was an October 2024 flood. Airbnb reported South Korea as the top inbound market in Chiang Mai for two quarters in 2024, with a 50% booking increase over 2023. There is also rising interest from the Asia-Pacific region, especially from Japanese and Indian tourists, predicting continued growth into 2025. -- 2025-01-28

PM Paetongtarn to Discuss Thai Tourism Safety with Xi in Beijing File photo. Courtesy: Xinhua/Ding Haitao Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra is set to meet Chinese President Xi Jinping next week to discuss tourist safety in Thailand. Her visit to Beijing, scheduled for February 5-8, aims to reassure Chinese tourists concerned about recent safety issues linked to a high-profile human trafficking case involving a Chinese actor near the Thai-Myanmar border earlier this month. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1350119-pm-paetongtarn-to-discuss-thai-tourism-safety-with-xi-in-beijing/